Keeping Ourselves unspotted from the world (Lesson 67)
Introduction:
1. In order to practice "pure and undefiled religion before God," we must "keep ourselves unspotted from the world" (James 1:27). 2. In our lesson we are concentrating on one of the world's spots mentioned in Romans 1:21: "being unthankful" [ingratitude]. 3. The Bible reveals principles that help us to overcome and avoid ingratitude. Discussion: I. LET US FIRST CONSIDER SEVERAL EXAMPLES OF "INGRATITUDE"
A. The Gentiles were not thankful (Romans 1:20-21). 1. (Romans 1:18-32) Paul showed why God gave up on the Gentiles. 2. One sin they committed was "not being thankful." 3. According to vs.20, the Gentiles had plenty of evidence to lead them to believe in God, but they chose to reject Him. 4. They also chose not to thank God for the blessings He provides. B. The Israelites failed to give thanks on many occasions. 1. They were thankful that God had punished Pharaoh (Exodus 15:1, 21). 2. Later, they failed to give thanks in Exodus 15:22-24; 16:2-3; 17:1-3. C. Nine of ten lepers healed by Jesus did not thank Him (Luke 17:17). D. These illustrations indicate that "ingratitude" is a serious problem. II. LET US NEXT CONSIDER WHY WE MUST AVOID "INGRATITUDE"
A. We must avoid "ingratitude" because the Bible teaches us repeatedly to be thankful (Colossians 3:15, 17; 4:2). B. "Ingratitude" is a sin because it violates God's law (1 John 3:4). III. FINALLY, LET US CONSIDER HOW "INGRATITUDE" CAN BE AVOIDED
A. Let us count our blessings -- God gives all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3) as well as every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). B. Let us avoid murmuring (1 Corinthians 10:10; Philippians 2:14). C. Let us practice the admonition given in Hebrews 13:15.
